Question

Consider the following tree structure, where A and C are co-referential. Similarly, E and H are co-referential. Identify the incorrect statement(s). 

• A. A binds C
• B. C binds E
• C. E binds D
• D. A binds H

Hint:

Always check c-command relations carefully: an antecedent must both co-refer and c-command for binding to hold.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B, C, D

Step 1: Recall binding theory basics
- Binding means that an antecedent c-commands and co-refers with another element.
- C-command: Node X c-commands node Y if every branching node dominating X also dominates Y, and X does not dominate Y.

Step 2: Analyze statements
(A) A binds C: A and C are co-referential, and A c-commands C through the structure. This is correct. ✔
(B) C binds E: C does not c-command E. E lies inside a different branch under D, so C cannot bind E. ✘
(C) E binds D: E is embedded under D, meaning it does not c-command D. Hence, E cannot bind D. ✘
(D) A binds H: A c-commands B and C, but not the internal nodes under D–F. Thus A cannot c-command H. So, A cannot bind H. ✘

Step 3: Conclusion
Only statement (A) is correct; the incorrect statements are (B), (C), and (D). \[ \boxed{\text{Incorrect: (B), (C), (D)}} \]